Once again, you have the best TO THE POINT tutorial on the subject. There are many other tutorials for tree, but they waste too much time on things that most of us don't need. Thank you for your work.
I build one thanks to your tutorial but ran into issue. I wanted to be less ambitious and have something by Christmas so I built one with 10 strips of 40 pixels on each. But seems to be some issue as even if each strip has been given its own channel on Falcom f48v4 there seems to be an issue where wrong leds are showing the color. Is there any specific settings for Strings, Nodes/Strings; Strand/Strings for my kind of set-up? Appreciate any suggestion. PS: Since total lights are only 400, I used the same port but gave the channel numbers to each strip. I tried testing and gave 2 strands per strip I could see two pinwheel but both rotating in opposite direction. Any? advice where to look at?
@@SwapnilBhartiya not sure what your using maybe xlights ? i did see once you can check the way led strings should be connected for sequences by right clicking the tree will show you a wire diagram how they should be connected to get the sequences , not sure if this helps if honest
Great Video! I am not doing a Mega Tree but just lighting up posts on an arch over my walkway. I figured setting up like a mega tree in either xlights or Vixen but I wasn't sure about stringing them up. I figured to go up and down the post and your video shows I was thinking correctly. My concept is to do 3 sides of the post as I have Lattice in the middle.. Thanks again.
Thanks for watching. My best wishes. Let me know if I can be of any help. At my website Trevilights.com you can book some time with me if you wish to discuss anything.
Hi there. Thanks for watching. You can start by getting a pixel controller and few strings of lights to play around with. Once you feel confident with what you have learned then you take to the next level, Awesomeness.😉
Trevi, I wish to encourage you to do more videos this is GREAT! I wish I had seen this one before the hundred of hours I spent on TH-cam. I settled on many of the same choices Falcon V16, 12 volt lights and xlights software. Also, I used xconnect male/female connectors, this was one of the confusing choices early in my journey since Jan 2020. I would also encourage you to set up affiliate links with the video, trying to buy all the components for building a show can be challenging. Good luck to all starting light shows!
Hey Sunny. Thank you so much for your kind words. I also spent a great amount of hours trying to figure out how things worked. That's why I decided to create these videos. Unfortunately with COVID-19 I have not had the chance to make more videos. Too many things going on right now. I am getting ready to put up the show shortly.
Excellent Video. No one except you went that far even in last 5 to 6 years since when we are watching these Christmas Light Shows. Thanks for sharing. I would try to build a Arch sometime soon but would try to use a smaller controller as falcon one is not available in India as of now I guess. Appreciate your help 🙏🙏
Awesome! Please do more instructionals. I love the way you explain things. Also, would like to know more about power injecting. (Do you splice into the positive and ground wires?).
Yes, Most of the WS2811 lights come with two extra wires that are already connected to the positive and negative at both ends. All you have to do is connect a power supply into this wires. Every 300 lights should do the trick. From what I have read every LED consumes about 0.06 watts. So if you have a 1000 lights they will be consuming about 60W(0.06 X 1000). So buy a power supply larger that 60W. You can have multiple wires coming from this power supply into the different points of the strip.
Excellent music choice at the end! I am looking to do a 20' Megatree on the roof of my office but this is going to be tricky. Weather is coming and it is slippery when wet, plus its 2 stories up and I cannot drill into the roof for support. Time to improvise like a madman.
Hello. Thanks for your comments and for watching. You can find most of thing in this video in the following sites. www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm boscoyostudio.com/product/megatree-mounting-strip-heavy-duty-max-roll-200/
@@WooderBoyProductions Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing. www.homedepot.com/p/WINEGARD-5-ft-Swedged-Masting-for-Outdoor-Antenna-TB-0005/204701122
Hi Melchor. I did not, but it is recommended. I did not do it since the supplier of the power supplies I use claim that parallel connections are possible. I have done my show for 6 years, never had an issue because of this. Check the specifications of your power supplies. Thanks for watching. If possible, power inject from the same power supply your controller is using.
Awesome video. This inspired me to start a small rgb display on top of my existing yard and house lights. May I know how you get to connect power injection using pigtail? Im using Ray Wu lights with pigtails. Thanks.
The lights that I use come with an extra set of wires coming out from the first and last light. If yours do not have this extra pair of wires then you will have to split your positive and ground wires. Or use a "Y" type adaptor.
Hi, All power Injection for my mega tree is coming from one power supply. Now, I have upgraded my Mega Tree to be 1600 pixels. (16 Strands of 100 pixels each, 180 Degrees). Below is a non-public video showing a distribution block that I use, and the amperage been used while playing a sequence. You see the amperes jumping around as the sequences changes effect. Also I run my show at 35% of brightness. The brighter, the more power you need. I use 18awg wire and 10amp fuses for power injection. th-cam.com/video/zvxYS3GRb-Q/w-d-xo.html
I love watching your videos. I want to build this tree and I am new to all this. So I was wondering if you could show exactly how it all plugs in to power and power injection. Like to the strands get power only from the supply directly under tree? And are all 12 strands connected together to both ports or 6 connected per port? Really gets confusing. I don’t want to catch anything on fire lol! Thanks again. All your videos are extremely helpful!
Hey Dustin. Thanks for watching my videos. It's kind on confusing at first but nothing too complicated to understand. In this setup 12 strands to to port 1 and 12 strands to port 2. If decide to go for it, I offer 1-on-1 assistance using video conference. Just try to start early in the year. It take time to get things ready.
@@trevilights Thanks for the quick reply. I plan on trying to round up the supplies and be ready for next year. I think I’m a little late in the ballgame this year lol. A lot of vendors are sold out of things. Awesome to know there are good people like you willing to help!
@@dustinhadley2606 Yes, things sell out quick. Keep an eye on the Falcon F16V4. Order one when available. That will give you enough time to learn and play around. I will be around.
Hi David. This is divided into 2 strings of 600 pixels each. For every string, it received injection at 3 points, the beginning coming from the controller, another one halfway at pixel 300 and at the end if the string at pixel 600. In other words every 300 pixels. I would recommend power inject every 200 pixels. This is valid for a 12v setup running at 30% brightness.
Thank u for the video. I noticed on the falcon controller ur using the bottom left port. Isn’t that a 5v port ? On the other side is 12v ports. ? Is ports 1-8 5v and 9-16 12v?
Hi. All of the port are 12v in my configuration. But you have to option to run 12v and 5v simultaneously using two power supplies. My 12v power supply is powering both sides.
Sure. Those are extra cables to inject power if needed. The string lights that I got came with them at both ends. If you are not injecting power then just make sure they do not touch each other as they run 12v(positive and ground). Cut the expose wire and/or put some electric tape to protect.
Thank you for sharing this video. I love your mega tree and singing trees! If I start now, I might be able to accomplish this by next Christmas. Question - How do you store your mega tree after the season is over? Do you dismantle it completely and rebuild it the following year?
What a great video! Thanks! Regarding the power injection, did you make a cut in the 'load' wire between the 2 power supplies (So that only ground and data continue from the falcon and the falcon only powers the first part of the string and the other power supply powers the rest?)
Glad you liked the video. No cuts on the wire. The Falcon is also providing power to the string. I am just making sure that I am proving enough power to the string with the power supplies. I do not want to over load the Falcon power supply, otherwise the controller might act erratically.
@@trevilights Sorry to be a pain. I have the LED lights. I have the power supply. My concern are the connectors at the end of the LED lights. The black strips to hold the LED lights. The tree topper holder. Could you go through and provide a link for each product. Your video really gave me some inspiration. I have the lights on the house doing different things. Know I need to advance to the mega tree. Thanks
Very informative! Thank you. since you used power injection does that mean the main controller box was in the garage? i did not see how the tree was connected to the controller box.
All elements are connected to the controller inside the garage. The controller provides 12v. Depending on how many pixels you have on that string, you might need to inject power to bring the voltage back as close to 12v as possible.
@@trevilights is there a rule to how many pixels you will need to inject power? for example, a mega tree 890 pixels that is only 15 feet from controller box. thanks
@@tbbucatfl There are some guide lines that we can follow. According to the WS2811 manufactures the WS2811 pixel uses 0.06 watts. On a 890 mega tree that will be 53 watts (on a 12v system that will be 4.5Amps). Now this is just how much power it will use(at 100% brightness), not how frequent we need to inject power. Power injection is a tricky thing. The brightness that you set your controller plays a big role. I run my show at 30%, so the leds are using less power which allows me to inject power on fewer places. What I do when I have a new element it to play a sequence and use a voltmeter and I measure the voltage at different points. For a 12v string I try to keep the voltage no lower than 10v. Hope this helps.
Thank you for the clarity that you're running 600 pixels on each of two ports. Do you overcome the five amp fuse limit per falcon Port by using power injection every 100 pixels? Do you have to be sure that your supplemental power supplies are on so that it doesn't blow the controller fuse? This is so helpful as I transition from crazy lighting on Halloween costumes to crazy Xmas lighting
Hey Klay. Let me give a live example. I just measured what my 20 Candy Canes(1000 pixel total) draw doing a color wash effect at 30% brightness. I have 3 extra power injection point beside the one that the controller is already supplying(every 250 pixels). All of those 4 point are using no more that 1.5amps each (used voltmeter with clamp). Now, I must confess that the voltage at any point of my string is between 9-10 volts, not 12v. I guess I need to inject more often, but the pixels still work perfect. So basically a 1000 pixels will use no more that 6 amps total. According to the specs found in Amazon for the WS2811 12v pixel, each led uses 0.3w with translate to 0.025amps per pixel. If we multiply 0.025 x1000 pixel we get 25amps at 100% brightness. At 30% brightness this will be 7.5amps, very close to what I am getting. I am running my 5000+ pixel show with two 360w(29amp) power supply at 30% brightness.
@@trevilights Thank you! Regarding 30%.. is the logic that 30% is bright enough but not obnoxious... And/or... That higher power can't be noticed by eye typically?
great video. You are very detailed. BTW for the controller do you always have to have the ethernet cable mounted throughout the show or is it just for the initial setup
Hi there. Throughout all the show. This is how the Falcon controller gets their data. Other controllers like the Kulp are a little different, but same concept. Thanks for watching.
Hi trevi thanks for getting back to me on a question i asked , when i load a sequence on xlights i see 30.00 on the view master watching it , i made a sequence up but will not show past 30.00 and i am not actually sure that when it is uploaded to the lights it will show for maybe 10 seconds then go off ? how do you make a longer sequence and one that will loop back to the beginning again and keep going till you stop it yourself ? i do not really want the tree to come on for ten seconds then go off again , any help welcome , as many with xlights its not as straight forward as expected so any help in easy terms please , and keep up the good work , i have learnt a lot watching your videos .
Go to File, Sequence Settings. Change the duration to any number that you want. If you create a musical sequence then the duration will be as long as the song you pick.
@@chriswren596 Not from xlights. You can use the xlights scheduler which was Installed on your computer when you installed xlights. I have never used it. Or use the Falcon player which installs on a Raspberry Pi to shedule it. You can also use the Falcon controller as a Stand Alone player.
Greetings Mr. Trevi. Thank you for your posting They are awesome. I have a question a tall is your tree and where did you purchased the topper. Thank you.
Hello. Thank you for your words. The tree is about 9ft tall. The topper I got it from Holidaycoro.com www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
I am trying to figure out everything I need to get to embark on pixel Xmas light shows at our house. I still don't understand why anyone would choose 5v over 12v? Also, can the f16 plug right into a switch to get it on the network and the show then driven off a computer using xlights, or, do you still need the pi?
Hi There. Well, 5v uses less electricity and are a little cheaper. But I still prefer 12v. You can run your show using xlights Scheduler App from your computer, but this means your computer will need to be on during this time. Having a Pi has it advantages. The FPP software has many other options and you can control P5 and P10 Panels, Control Input Channels as well as Output Channels, Send data to multiple controllers, etc. Also you can put it inside the same box as your controller and forget about using your computer, and disconnect from a ethernet cord. I guess is just matter of preferences and needs. But you can start by running your show from your computer.
Hi James. There are different places were you can buy the materials. Some of these sites sell full assembled tree if you do not what to build it yourself. For Pixel controllers go to... kulplights.com pixelcontroller.com Accesories like pixels, plastic trips, tree toppers etc. Holidaycoro.com Boscostudios.com mattosdesigns.com/collections/megatree-kits ---> never used this site
Hola Jesus, las estacas no es mas que un linea de pixeles (5 -10 pixeles) interconectadas en serie. Tambien podrias usar el elemento de cubo. Las acomodas verticalmente de forma que cubran el espacio que requieras en el piso. Depues creas un grupo con todas ellas y pones effectos.
@@601jesus La Linea recta. Haces una de los pixeles que quieras y la pones en forma vertical. La copias y acomodas cuantas veces quieras cubriendo el area que quieras.
@@601jesus Por nada. Muchas veces este proceso es de prueba y error. Intenta algo y si no es lo que esperabas, prueba otra cosa. Si necesitas ayuda, puedes separa tiempo conmigo en trevilights.com y tenemos una video llamada. Suerte.
Nice job. Quick question: do I need the F16v3? Do you know of a less expensive controller? I see the f16v3 has multiple outputs but with the tree, we only be using a few of them. Please advise
Thanks you. Unfortunately no. Most of them run for $200 dolars. But you get many functionality. Think of it as an investment for years. I started with 1500 pixels. A few years later I have over 6000.
@@trevilights I’ve just checked and they don’t ship to Hong Kong. Do you happen to know of any other suppliers ? AliExpress would work as they usually ship here. Thanks again.
hi trevi how did you connect the 3 power surply to mega tree because i want to add other power surply to my matrix and mega tree that is connected to controller
Hi Den bel. I placed and extra power supply under the mega tree. All you have to do is connect the positive and negative wires to extra set of cables that most of the LED string have. Basically I have an extra pigtail every 200 or 300 lights. I am also injecting power ar the last string of lights of the mega tree. My mega tree is 1200 light. So I am injecting at led 300, 600, 900 and 1200. That power supply also supply power to my singing trees. Obviously you need to run a 120v extension to power the 12v power supply.
No problem at all. The grass pretty much absorbs all rain. We get no snow at all in Tennessee. Maybe you could rise your power supplies with some brick. My controller is inside my garage. I do not want it to be stolen. 🙄
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm Also check: mattosdesigns.com/collections/megatree-parts-1 and wiredwatts.com
These string of lights come with an extra positive (red) and negative (blue) wires for power injection. You may not be able to see it in the video, but the copper tips are cut off. But you are right, there is a possibility of a short if not cover properly. Thanks for watching.
Nice video but I think you forgot any information about using the PI and FM transmitter. Maybe I overlooked it but went through the video a couple times.
Hi. Trevi, Do you have any video showing how to take a picture of a house to incorporate it in the Setup of xlight software showing where to place a model or pros...
hey Li2, I do not have a video on that. But if you click anywhere on the black portion of the Layout view, you will see an option to the left that says 'Background Image". Here you can select a photo of the front of you house and it will set it and background. Then you can bring its brightness to 20.
@@trevilights Tenx.. I have another question for you regarding Raspberry Pi. I have watch your video and it was very well said.. However, Im a little bit curious about using this gadget plus the FM transmitter. My question is,.. If I use this Raspberry Pi with FM transmitter will my lights in mega tree dance with the music in FM radio?
@@li2buenafe Hello Li2, I have never done anything like that. The Falcon player(PI) plays sequences form xLights. I know xlights has an music effect that will make lights dance. But the music comes from a file not the radio and it has its limitations. In TH-cam search for xlights music effect. There are a few demos available.
Hi. Trev.. Got a question. I just received my F16v3 16ports 12v. To be use for my 16 ft Mega Tree. If I want to add let say a roof line layout with 400 Nodes with 3" spacing. Do I need to buy another controller for my roof outline.?? and another controller for a singing Tree just like yours. ??
Hello Mr. Trevi, can I ask if you could help me with a video of power injecting? Estoy medio menso lol and I'm having a hard time. The way you explain your video is the best I've seen. Please, porfa una ayudita 🆘
Injecting power is very simple. The power supply I am using are like this one... www.amazon.com/ALITOVE-Universal-Regulated-Switching-Transformer/dp/B06XJVYDDW/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?ie=UTF8&aaxitk=s9DjW5F12eETMZNr.Zcjbg&hsa_cr_id=2776961390401&pd_rd_r=aad1c139-a604-4d9c-b037-c540c276b25c&pd_rd_w=I3ZmG&pd_rd_wg=Whaqt&ref_=sbx_be_s_sparkle_td_asin_2_title This power supply have three 12V+ screws and 12V- screws. All you have to do is connect one positive and one negative to the lights positive and negative wire. Just make sure you do not flip them. From my experience injecting every 300 lights should be enough.
@@trevilights Thanks again for the video... It looks like you are using multiple power supplies, my question is with the extra power injection wires on the ws2811 strings is it OK the have one power supply on one end of the string and another power supply on the other end? Thanks for the help!
Hi Robert. Thanks for watching my video. You still need some tools like heat gun, clippers, solder gun, antenna pole, some sort of base for the tree to hold it upright(unless you have help while you out some of the plastic strips). Some plastic or metal anchors, 3 wire cables enough to run a line from the controller to the tree. You should start as soon as possible. It takes time to gather and assemble all of this. Also the resting and sequences takes time. Good luck.
@@robertcavello6568 Yes. I would recommend you to get the Falcon Controller F16V3 as kit or fully assembled, some extra power supplies and some pixels ws2811. All in 12 volts. This will allow you to get familiar with the project.
Hi Rexton. No, you can play a sequence from your computer straight to the controller. The Raspberry Pi replaces your computer and add some other functionality. You can schedule and organize your sequence among other things. But is not required. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for your videos. It is really helpful. I am thinking of buying a F16v3 fully assembled controller and I have followed your steps and almost set. Only the sequences just learning. In falcon controller there is a sd card slot can I download the sequences in a sd card and play without connecting the controller to the computer? I s there a video to help me that? Once again thank you..
@@rextonandrew Rexton. Buying the controller fully assembled is a smart move. The controller has an SD card slot but it is only used for software upgrades. Playing sequences out of it is not supported(yet). So the sequences need to play either for your computer of other devices such as the Falcon player installed in a Raspberry PI.
Just double checking, but if I start with a female pigtail on the bottom of strand 1 then that strand ends with a male pigtail at the top. So the next strand would need a female pigtail at the top. So for your 12 strand example you would have 6 strands with the female pigtail at the bottom and 6 strands with male pigtails at the bottom. Would it not be better to make the plastic strips such that the top and bottom were the same so all strands are made identical? Then you would just have to turn each strand one way or the other to keep the data flow in the correct direction? Or am I missing something?
@@codecage9333 Yes, you are correct. But please notice that usually a string of light will come with xconnect pigtails included and the input end is a male connector. But if you are making your own extensions then you are okay.
@@trevilights Thought the input end was a female connector. Your video at 7:30 to 7:47 gives me that impression. An added edit: I finally figured it out! The input end of factory/prewired ws2811 RGB LEDS have male pigtails and the output end is a female pigtail. Your reference to which was which was based on cutting off the non-waterproof ends and attaching matching waterproof ends. But if you installed male on the end you cut of the non-waterproof female connector and a female connector on the other end where you removed the non-waterproof male connector, you'd would be matching the preassembled cables like I have been purchasing.
@@codecage9333 Exactly. I will prefer that you follow the standards. But at the end of the day, is up to you your show will work the same. Some of the props/strands that I have, are from when I started, about 5 years go and wired the differently. I still use does props as they are.
I did not included it in this video. I will be uploading one in the next few days. Meanwhile you can watch the initial setup of the PI (falcon Player) here... th-cam.com/video/yqXK5p1eRM4/w-d-xo.html
each lights consumes around 0.06 watts when lit white and at full brightness. So 1200 lights will be 0.06 x 1200 = 72 Watts. But since they are not lit white all the time and not a 100% brightness the consumption is much lower. The power supplies I have are 29Amp 360 Watts. Should be enough to power more that 4000 lights. It's good not to run a power supply over it's 75% capacity.
Which topper did you choose from Holiday Coro? The QT1? Is it a 3/4 conduit pole? Also what height do I need the pole to be to replicate yours? Great video!
Hi Jared, I used the QT2. As fot the hight, I used two Antenna poles. But it all depends on the lenght of your plastic strips and the spacing between pixels. The idea is find a good angle for your strands. Some people like thier tree thin and tall, other short and wide. Keep in mind that when the strands are closer together, the effects look better. Thanks for watching.
@@jaredwilson6214 24 Strips of 50 lights each. Total of 1200 pixels for a 360 degrees tree. This year I am doing 16 Strips of 100 lights for a 180 degree tree. Twice as high, but only half round tree.
I built the tree myself. But the topper and plastic strip I did got from Holiday Coro. The center pole is actually made of two antenna masts. Around 9ft tall.
I'm looking at following your instructions to build my first mega tree. When I go to the site to buy the Falcon controller, which options do I select? I can see I'll want 12v based on the lights you suggest. But what about pigtail type? Thank you for putting these videos together, your work is amazing.
Hey Richard. Thank you so much for your words and for watching my videos. The selection of pigtails is up to you. Just make sure they are water proof which most of them are. You will need 1 pair per string(strand) for your tree. Since we are doing a zig-zag pattern, your string will connect to each other on the top and bottom of you tree. You can find different brands and sizes on Amazon. Many people use Ray Wu brand, they use 18awg wire which is robust. I used some unbranded that I got from Aliexpress(china). Buy always the same brand, since the connector size varies and might not be compatible between them. Good luck with your project. www.amazon.com/Pigtail-Waterproof-Connector-Lights-13-5mm/dp/B07YZDCG9P/ref=sr_1_7?crid=3MOZGDFO9511U&dchild=1&keywords=3+wire+pigtail&qid=1632829740&sprefix=3+wire+pigtai%2Caps%2C393&sr=8-7
WS2811 Digital Addressable LED Strip 12V Aclorol Programmable 5050 RGB 5M 300 LED Strip Dream Color White PCB IP67 Waterproof www.amazon.com/dp/B07FTRVS2W/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_fabc_Utw3FbT8J3N41?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
you have two controllers, do you have a link to the assembly of the controller with the power supply? does each power supply plug into the f16V3, doe the power supply get power from the controller? also since you have 2 controllers, and each is capable of 1024 lights, and you only use 600 each, do you run the other 424 to a smaller tree each?
Hello. I only have one controller. The controller is powered by only one power supply which sits next to it. I do have a second box with two power supplies. These ones are used to inject power to my mega tree and singing trees since they demand more power. And yes, you could add more lights at the end of the two 600 lights strings. You will need to inject more power to them. I am going to add a star on the top of the mega tree which I am going to connect from one of those strings.
So can you do a video dumbed down for those of who are new to show us how the power supplies work, how they connect to get power, a real close up of the inner workings. I would imagine it’s powered by a cord you plug into the controller or the wall? Maybe give us a detailed breakdown of where you got your materials and a details cost analysis. It’s so hard to know what is good. What is not. What works together and what doesn’t. Don’t be afraid to give a real “dumbed” down approach for those who also may not be computer literate. Thanks for doing how to videos. How much power does a power supply utilize. You said you have three. Thanks again.
@@Lerchcon I guess I could. Just give me some time. I have other videos that I'll like to upload first. You can find a ready to run controller just like mine in the link below. You could save a few bucks if you do it yourself but not much. www.pixelcontroller.com/store/index.php?id_product=50&controller=product
@@trevilights I guess my confusion really is dealing with importing other peoples sequences, I tried and none of them work. This cloud download crap is a pain in hen using Microsoft to download from website. And when downloaded from xlights program it didn’t work either. Other questions would be, what is the raspberry PI for if the controller claims to be ready to run, is there already one installed. I actually sat down and played with the xlights program. I created a full sequence for my mega tree to Mariahs all I want for Christmas. Then accidentally opened the internet. Seen the download still there so I deleted it tho king the one I created was good since I saved it. And it deleted the sound from my sequence the next time I opened it. Crazy. I redownloaded the song and added to the already created sequence. from your video I learned about layering. So good job. Little short videos of things like that will definitely garner more views for your channel. Thanks for also replying. And thanks for the videos. I also just tried to download the new version of that software and my computer keeps saying with three pop ups it will harm my computer and is blocked. The first download of xlights didn’t say that. Hmmmm.
@@Lerchcon Hi Lerchcon, Importing sequence from someone else can be very frustrating, specially because we do not know if they are in good shape or are incomplete. I will try to upload a simple video on it, but keep in mind that it would only work if you are willing to have a similar layout on your house. Now, the reason to use a Pi Controller is so you can run your show without your computer. The Falcon Player (Pi Controller) allows you to create Playlist with the songs that you want to play. You can have many playlist and play them at different time and different days. It has many more options. IF you are okay using your computer, then there is no need for one. I will create a short video on importing sequence shortly. Stay tune.
I got mostly on amazon, Even the lights even I had to pay a little more. I like the Idea of been able to return them if they do not work. The controller from PixelController LLC. The singing trees from boscoyostudio.
Hello Trevi I have a question. the top of the big tree. where the pixel band enters. is this for sale somewhere or can it be printed yourself with a 3d printer. I would like to hear from you then I can either buy or make it. thank you in advance greetings gideon
Thanks for the great videos. I am new to pixel Christmas lights and have been able to get my first display working good by watching your videos. My first tree was an artificial tree with 450 lights on one string. They are 5 volt strings and power injected. I have had about 6 lights go bad after testing the tree for a couple of months. Is that failure rate common? My next tree that I have about finished is a mega tree with 1500 pixels in 30 strands. Should I run one strand per controller output so if a light goes bad I don't lose a large portion of my display? I see you ran half of your tree on one output. How did that work for you? Any help is appreciated. Thanks. Dave
Dave, Thanks for watching. Makes me happy to know that I am helping a few of you to get started on led shows. I've been doing this for 4 years now and I have never had one single pixel go bad. Check your connection for a short and make sure you are using the correct voltage for your pixels. It's weird that you having so many strings go bad. For your tree, I assume that you are using a F16V3 Falcon controller, which has a limit of 1024 lights per port. Is you are planning to have 1500 lights then you are going to use two of your ports. You can have any number of pixels per port as long as you do not go over 1024. But I recommend to break it in two to make configuration more simple. Your you can have 750 pixels on one port and another 750 in another port. Take into consideration that you will need to inject power to feed 750 lights. I recommend injecting at 3 points. The first point is where it connects to the controller which is already injecting power. The second point will be half way, like at the end of strand number 7 and the last one at the end of strand 15. The same goes for the other string. Hope this helps.
@@trevilights Thanks for your help and input. The tree that is burning out the lights is using 5 volt lights and I am using a smart receiver set at 5.1 volts which is the minimum for the smart receiver to operate properly. I am going to take the lights off of the tree and run them individually on the workbench and see if I can figure out why they keep burning out. My mega tree should be done in the next couple weeks thanks to great advice from your videos. They were especially helpful in getting Xlights working. I will power inject every hundred lights and since they are going to be run off a smart receiver I will probably input data every 500 lights for my total of 1500 pixels. Once again thanks for your help. Dave
@@susanclouse281 Dave, as a tip see if by removing the first pixel of your burnt string makes the rest of the pixels to work. It could be just the first pixel that is bad. You might be able to reuse the rest on some other elements.
@@trevilights Thanks for the tip. Yes, I have been replacing the bad lights and the strings work again. The tree that I am having problems with has 9 strings hooked into it so if one bulb goes bad I lose the majority of the lights on the tree. I was glad to hear you have not had a pixel go out. I might just have some bad strings. My current Christmas display has over 30,000 regular LED bulbs which don't give me many problems so I was surprised that the pixels were burning out. Thanks again. Dave
Hello it's very nice to share your knowledge !! Could you please make a video how you build your singing trees ;) Best regards from France !! (I subscribe) ;)
Hi. 9 ft. Last season I added an additional 50 pixels to each strand. Now it’s 100 pixels per strand for a height of about 19 ft. You can see it and the background for my site trevilight.com
Hey Trevi what controller and receivers did you use for the singing Chris tree? Did you add data to megatree receiver or supplied one for the singing tree? I am getting bunch of stuff from holidaycoro so just want to be sure what I would need.
Hey. I only use a Falcon Controller F16V3, no receivers. The distance between the controller and elements is short. I do have an extra power supply under the tree which injects power to the tree and other close by elements.
@@trevilights whats the rule of the distance before a receiver is required? I'm trying to do megatree, arch, singing christmas tree and few other elements. I would say approx feet would be 25 from garage to lawn.
@@rpra7392 25ft should be okay. Use some good quality 18gs 3 wire cables for the run. My show is 12v and believe this voltage is better over 5v when it come to voltage drop over distance. I recomend you to buy some F-amp just is case. www.pixelcontroller.com/store/controllers/53-falcon-picap.html
@@trevilights Thanks a lot. I have the song downloaded.... its my first year and I have build just about the same setup as you have....a mega tree and 2 singing trees.... just starting on xlights, so would it be possible to get the sequence with the singing trees from you ? Best regards from Denmark
@@trevilights That would be awesome Trevi..... I know I dont have so much time before the 1st of December to learn all the tricks. Would it be possible to buy your singing tree sequence to shorten the learning. Best regards from Denmark
CanaKit Raspberry Pi 3 B+ (B Plus) with Premium Clear Case and 2.5A Power Supply www.amazon.com/CanaKit-Raspberry-Premium-Clear-Supply/dp/B07BC7BMHY/ref=sr_1_4?crid=F4K581M430VS&dchild=1&keywords=canakit+raspberry+pi+3+b%2B&qid=1608562945&sprefix=canakit+ras%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-4
Once again, you have the best TO THE POINT tutorial on the subject. There are many other tutorials for tree, but they waste too much time on things that most of us don't need. Thank you for your work.
I build one thanks to your tutorial but ran into issue. I wanted to be less ambitious and have something by Christmas so I built one with 10 strips of 40 pixels on each. But seems to be some issue as even if each strip has been given its own channel on Falcom f48v4 there seems to be an issue where wrong leds are showing the color. Is there any specific settings for Strings, Nodes/Strings; Strand/Strings for my kind of set-up? Appreciate any suggestion. PS: Since total lights are only 400, I used the same port but gave the channel numbers to each strip. I tried testing and gave 2 strands per strip I could see two pinwheel but both rotating in opposite direction. Any? advice where to look at?
@@SwapnilBhartiya not sure what your using maybe xlights ? i did see once you can check the way led strings should be connected for sequences by right clicking the tree will show you a wire diagram how they should be connected to get the sequences , not sure if this helps if honest
I Just love your Video's ..I have learn't a lot from all your video's .. you are a great Teacher .. Thank you Trevi again .. from Sydney Australia
Hi Joseph. Thank you very much. I am glad you find them useful.
Great Video! I am not doing a Mega Tree but just lighting up posts on an arch over my walkway. I figured setting up like a mega tree in either xlights or Vixen but I wasn't sure about stringing them up. I figured to go up and down the post and your video shows I was thinking correctly. My concept is to do 3 sides of the post as I have Lattice in the middle..
Thanks again.
Hi there. Thanks for watching. Yes, zig zag is the way to go. Good luck with your project.
great video again Trevi
Wow this is fantastic! Good job, good illustrations, very detailed. This is the best tutorial on you tube on making your own led tree.
Hi Emamanuel, thank you very much for your words. Thanks for watching.
This is great!
Time to start my Christmas 2023 MEGA TREE... wish me luck :)
Thanks for watching. My best wishes. Let me know if I can be of any help. At my website Trevilights.com you can book some time with me if you wish to discuss anything.
By the way. Start now. It take a lot of time to setup a show. You might still make it on time.
I would like to see how you build your singing trees
I will be adding a video in the next few days.
Very clever. I wouldn't know how to start to have a display like that.
Hi there. Thanks for watching. You can start by getting a pixel controller and few strings of lights to play around with. Once you feel confident with what you have learned then you take to the next level, Awesomeness.😉
Great video! I will show my father so he can decorate our house this upcoming christmas!!!
Thank you. For questions just send me a message.
Thanks for posting! This is fantastic. I am just getting into the hobby and a detailed video like this is exactly what I needed!
Cheers
I am glad you liked it. Go for it! More videos coming!!
Trevi, I wish to encourage you to do more videos this is GREAT! I wish I had seen this one before the hundred of hours I spent on TH-cam. I settled on many of the same choices Falcon V16, 12 volt lights and xlights software. Also, I used xconnect male/female connectors, this was one of the confusing choices early in my journey since Jan 2020. I would also encourage you to set up affiliate links with the video, trying to buy all the components for building a show can be challenging. Good luck to all starting light shows!
Hey Sunny. Thank you so much for your kind words. I also spent a great amount of hours trying to figure out how things worked. That's why I decided to create these videos. Unfortunately with COVID-19 I have not had the chance to make more videos. Too many things going on right now. I am getting ready to put up the show shortly.
Interesting video. In Spain we do not usually decorate Christmas with so many lights but it is a beautiful decoration. Congratulations
Gracias por tus comentarios. Saludos.
@trevilights Are you using just one falcon f16v3 for this tree and the 2 singing trees? If you are using more what else are you using?
Hi there. Just one F16V3. My mega tree is divided into two ports of 600 lights each. The singing trees are connected in series to another port.
@@trevilights Ten4. Your tutorials are the best ones I've seen.
Thank you very much.
Excellent Video.
No one except you went that far even in last 5 to 6 years since when we are watching these Christmas Light Shows.
Thanks for sharing.
I would try to build a Arch sometime soon but would try to use a smaller controller as falcon one is not available in India as of now I guess.
Appreciate your help 🙏🙏
Wow, thanks!
Where do I buy the tree topper that you connected the lights to?
Trevi thank you for such a great video. You have helped me very much.
Thanks for watching. I am glad that it helped you.
Super job. Great editing and content! Thank you!
Much appreciated!
Please can you do a video on your singing trees, They look great and would like to try and replicate them :)
Will do.
th-cam.com/video/IQm1DtyjWuE/w-d-xo.html
Awesome! Please do more instructionals. I love the way you explain things. Also, would like to know more about power injecting. (Do you splice into the positive and ground wires?).
Yes, Most of the WS2811 lights come with two extra wires that are already connected to the positive and negative at both ends. All you have to do is connect a power supply into this wires. Every 300 lights should do the trick. From what I have read every LED consumes about 0.06 watts. So if you have a 1000 lights they will be consuming about 60W(0.06 X 1000). So buy a power supply larger that 60W. You can have multiple wires coming from this power supply into the different points of the strip.
Excellent music choice at the end! I am looking to do a 20' Megatree on the roof of my office but this is going to be tricky. Weather is coming and it is slippery when wet, plus its 2 stories up and I cannot drill into the roof for support. Time to improvise like a madman.
Wow. That's a big project. Good luck. Please document your progress.
Can you please share for how you would do it and what components would you use?
Trevi I would like to see a video on Boscoyo Tune to sign. How to do the layout in Xlights
Maybe this video will help.
th-cam.com/video/IKkRs10fntY/w-d-xo.html
@@trevilights Thank You
I'm very interested in how you do it all and how i can get some of those things
@@seandennis2081 Hi. If you need help you can always book some time with me at trevilghts.com and we chat about your project.
Thanks
Great Video. Do you have any more detailing out the Pi controller setup. Also, where did you get your topper?
I will be adding a couple of more videos in the next few days to explain the controller and PI.
Thank you for the instructions!
One thing though... where did you get the topper with all the slots in it for the strips?
Hello. Thanks for your comments and for watching. You can find most of thing in this video in the following sites.
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
boscoyostudio.com/product/megatree-mounting-strip-heavy-duty-max-roll-200/
What size pole did you use and where did you get your mega tree topper?
The pole is made of two four feet antenna pole that you can get at your hardware store. The topper I got it from Holidaycoro.com
@@trevilights what size pole did you use. Width?
@@WooderBoyProductions Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing.
www.homedepot.com/p/WINEGARD-5-ft-Swedged-Masting-for-Outdoor-Antenna-TB-0005/204701122
Did you have to cut the positive lead before the injection point? Thanks
Hi Melchor. I did not, but it is recommended. I did not do it since the supplier of the power supplies I use claim that parallel connections are possible. I have done my show for 6 years, never had an issue because of this. Check the specifications of your power supplies. Thanks for watching. If possible, power inject from the same power supply your controller is using.
Hey, Can you do a detail video on the controller, such as parts you use and a step by step programming please .
I will try to add one within the next few days.
@@trevilights Hi. I just subscribed. A video on the controller would be helpful!
@@pocho182 Thanks for subscribing. That video in coming soon in a few days.
Where you located to see your show?
Hi. In La Vergne TN.
Awesome video. This inspired me to start a small rgb display on top of my existing yard and house lights. May I know how you get to connect power injection using pigtail? Im using Ray Wu lights with pigtails. Thanks.
The lights that I use come with an extra set of wires coming out from the first and last light. If yours do not have this extra pair of wires then you will have to split your positive and ground wires. Or use a "Y" type adaptor.
Hi ! Are all your strings are on the same power line ? How many amps do you need (which fuse ?) thanks !
Hi, All power Injection for my mega tree is coming from one power supply. Now, I have upgraded my Mega Tree to be 1600 pixels. (16 Strands of 100 pixels each, 180 Degrees). Below is a non-public video showing a distribution block that I use, and the amperage been used while playing a sequence. You see the amperes jumping around as the sequences changes effect. Also I run my show at 35% of brightness. The brighter, the more power you need. I use 18awg wire and 10amp fuses for power injection.
th-cam.com/video/zvxYS3GRb-Q/w-d-xo.html
trevi, I just notice that you never said where you purchased the tree topper from for your lights.
Hey Jack. I got it at Holiday Coro. It is the QT2 for up to 32 strands.
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
I love watching your videos. I want to build this tree and I am new to all this. So I was wondering if you could show exactly how it all plugs in to power and power injection. Like to the strands get power only from the supply directly under tree? And are all 12 strands connected together to both ports or 6 connected per port? Really gets confusing. I don’t want to catch anything on fire lol! Thanks again. All your videos are extremely helpful!
Hey Dustin. Thanks for watching my videos. It's kind on confusing at first but nothing too complicated to understand. In this setup 12 strands to to port 1 and 12 strands to port 2. If decide to go for it, I offer 1-on-1 assistance using video conference. Just try to start early in the year. It take time to get things ready.
@@trevilights Thanks for the quick reply. I plan on trying to round up the supplies and be ready for next year. I think I’m a little late in the ballgame this year lol. A lot of vendors are sold out of things. Awesome to know there are good people like you willing to help!
@@dustinhadley2606 Yes, things sell out quick. Keep an eye on the Falcon F16V4. Order one when available. That will give you enough time to learn and play around. I will be around.
Did you plug the power injection at the end of both strands? How many spots did you inject power on that tree?
Hi David. This is divided into 2 strings of 600 pixels each. For every string, it received injection at 3 points, the beginning coming from the controller, another one halfway at pixel 300 and at the end if the string at pixel 600. In other words every 300 pixels. I would recommend power inject every 200 pixels. This is valid for a 12v setup running at 30% brightness.
Thank u for the video. I noticed on the falcon controller ur using the bottom left port. Isn’t that a 5v port ? On the other side is 12v ports. ? Is ports 1-8 5v and 9-16 12v?
Hi. All of the port are 12v in my configuration. But you have to option to run 12v and 5v simultaneously using two power supplies. My 12v power supply is powering both sides.
Can you explain what the extra wires that are not connected are on the pixels when you connected the pigtails?
Sure. Those are extra cables to inject power if needed. The string lights that I got came with them at both ends. If you are not injecting power then just make sure they do not touch each other as they run 12v(positive and ground). Cut the expose wire and/or put some electric tape to protect.
Would you upload a video showing each component used, how it is wired, how you use the raspberrypi etc?
Amazing work
Thank you. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for sharing this video. I love your mega tree and singing trees! If I start now, I might be able to accomplish this by next Christmas. Question - How do you store your mega tree after the season is over? Do you dismantle it completely and rebuild it the following year?
Yes, I dismantle and store it in some large plastic totes. Putting the mega tree back together takes me about 2 hrs. Something I enjoy.
Christmas Ireland
th-cam.com/video/CzOrWCz0SMI/w-d-xo.html
What a great video! Thanks! Regarding the power injection, did you make a cut in the 'load' wire between the 2 power supplies (So that only ground and data continue from the falcon and the falcon only powers the first part of the string and the other power supply powers the rest?)
Glad you liked the video. No cuts on the wire. The Falcon is also providing power to the string. I am just making sure that I am proving enough power to the string with the power supplies. I do not want to over load the Falcon power supply, otherwise the controller might act erratically.
I keep an eye the the Falcon voltage reading in the status page.
Simple and great! Could you share where you got your tree topper?
Holiday Coro. I got the topper and plastic strip that hold the LEDs.
@TreviLights Can you put a link for the supplies you used? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Yes please would like to know where we can purchase
Holiday Coro, Boscoyo Studios, Pixel controller.com.
@@trevilights Sorry to be a pain. I have the LED lights. I have the power supply. My concern are the connectors at the end of the LED lights. The black strips to hold the LED lights. The tree topper holder. Could you go through and provide a link for each product.
Your video really gave me some inspiration. I have the lights on the house doing different things. Know I need to advance to the mega tree.
Thanks
@@joebitt1 these should work www.amazon.com/dp/B07BW9DQRD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_nI73Fb39CMPHC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
@@joebitt1 www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
Hi there Trevi, I like your video helps alot. Is there a video showing the RPi and how it controls the show.
Doug Evans
I'll try to make one soon.
Very informative! Thank you. since you used power injection does that mean the main controller box was in the garage? i did not see how the tree was connected to the controller box.
All elements are connected to the controller inside the garage. The controller provides 12v. Depending on how many pixels you have on that string, you might need to inject power to bring the voltage back as close to 12v as possible.
@@trevilights is there a rule to how many pixels you will need to inject power? for example, a mega tree 890 pixels that is only 15 feet from controller box. thanks
@@tbbucatfl There are some guide lines that we can follow. According to the WS2811 manufactures the WS2811 pixel uses 0.06 watts. On a 890 mega tree that will be 53 watts (on a 12v system that will be 4.5Amps). Now this is just how much power it will use(at 100% brightness), not how frequent we need to inject power. Power injection is a tricky thing. The brightness that you set your controller plays a big role. I run my show at 30%, so the leds are using less power which allows me to inject power on fewer places. What I do when I have a new element it to play a sequence and use a voltmeter and I measure the voltage at different points. For a 12v string I try to keep the voltage no lower than 10v. Hope this helps.
@@trevilights thank you! 30% seems the norm. maybe you can do a video showing this process.
What did you use as the topper to connect into? What is that thing called?
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
Wow
Thank you.
Glad to help!
Thank you for the clarity that you're running 600 pixels on each of two ports. Do you overcome the five amp fuse limit per falcon Port by using power injection every 100 pixels? Do you have to be sure that your supplemental power supplies are on so that it doesn't blow the controller fuse? This is so helpful as I transition from crazy lighting on Halloween costumes to crazy Xmas lighting
Hey Klay. Let me give a live example. I just measured what my 20 Candy Canes(1000 pixel total) draw doing a color wash effect at 30% brightness. I have 3 extra power injection point beside the one that the controller is already supplying(every 250 pixels). All of those 4 point are using no more that 1.5amps each (used voltmeter with clamp). Now, I must confess that the voltage at any point of my string is between 9-10 volts, not 12v. I guess I need to inject more often, but the pixels still work perfect. So basically a 1000 pixels will use no more that 6 amps total.
According to the specs found in Amazon for the WS2811 12v pixel, each led uses 0.3w with translate to 0.025amps per pixel. If we multiply 0.025 x1000 pixel we get 25amps at 100% brightness. At 30% brightness this will be 7.5amps, very close to what I am getting. I am running my 5000+ pixel show with two 360w(29amp) power supply at 30% brightness.
@@trevilights Thank you! Regarding 30%.. is the logic that 30% is bright enough but not obnoxious... And/or... That higher power can't be noticed by eye typically?
@@klayjones724 These light are bright. Sure you can run at 100% and you will noticed it, as well as your neighbors.
Very nice! I'm sure you had to answer this question about a hundred times. How much $$$ for total build? Thanks for sharing
Hey Mario, Just under $1000 including the pixel controller.
Trevi where did you purchase your tree topper
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
I have the QT2 for up to 32 strands.
any video on how it is wired, how you use the raspberrypi etc?
Hi Ding Dong. I am going to upload a video on how to upload your sequences and use the Pi in the next few days. Stay tuned. Thanks for watching.
Can you show how you wired the two power supplies and the controller?
Will do another video to explain. Thanks for watching.
Where did you get the umbrella brace?
You can get one from Amazon or eBay. It's a patio umbrella base.
great video. You are very detailed. BTW for the controller do you always have to have the ethernet cable mounted throughout the show or is it just for the initial setup
Hi there. Throughout all the show. This is how the Falcon controller gets their data. Other controllers like the Kulp are a little different, but same concept.
Thanks for watching.
Hey whats the distance between the lights in the strips. Also what is the topper you are using here
Hi trevi thanks for getting back to me on a question i asked , when i load a sequence on xlights i see 30.00 on the view master watching it , i made a sequence up but will not show past 30.00 and i am not actually sure that when it is uploaded to the lights it will show for maybe 10 seconds then go off ? how do you make a longer sequence and one that will loop back to the beginning again and keep going till you stop it yourself ? i do not really want the tree to come on for ten seconds then go off again , any help welcome , as many with xlights its not as straight forward as expected so any help in easy terms please , and keep up the good work , i have learnt a lot watching your videos .
Go to File, Sequence Settings. Change the duration to any number that you want. If you create a musical sequence then the duration will be as long as the song you pick.
@@trevilights hi trevi , is there a way of looping the sequence that once it finishes it will start again ? no music will be used
@@chriswren596 Not from xlights. You can use the xlights scheduler which was Installed on your computer when you installed xlights. I have never used it. Or use the Falcon player which installs on a Raspberry Pi to shedule it. You can also use the Falcon controller as a Stand Alone player.
Greetings Mr. Trevi. Thank you for your posting They are awesome. I have a question a tall is your tree and where did you purchased the topper. Thank you.
Hello. Thank you for your words. The tree is about 9ft tall. The topper I got it from Holidaycoro.com
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
I am trying to figure out everything I need to get to embark on pixel Xmas light shows at our house. I still don't understand why anyone would choose 5v over 12v? Also, can the f16 plug right into a switch to get it on the network and the show then driven off a computer using xlights, or, do you still need the pi?
Hi There. Well, 5v uses less electricity and are a little cheaper. But I still prefer 12v. You can run your show using xlights Scheduler App from your computer, but this means your computer will need to be on during this time.
Having a Pi has it advantages. The FPP software has many other options and you can control P5 and P10 Panels, Control Input Channels as well as Output Channels, Send data to multiple controllers, etc. Also you can put it inside the same box as your controller and forget about using your computer, and disconnect from a ethernet cord.
I guess is just matter of preferences and needs. But you can start by running your show from your
computer.
What website do I go to to purchase all the materials to build this and what all materials do I need? Thank you loved the video
Hi James. There are different places were you can buy the materials. Some of these sites sell full assembled tree if you do not what to build it yourself.
For Pixel controllers go to...
kulplights.com
pixelcontroller.com
Accesories like pixels, plastic trips, tree toppers etc.
Holidaycoro.com
Boscostudios.com
mattosdesigns.com/collections/megatree-kits ---> never used this site
@@trevilights thank you
Hola amigo puedes hacer un video bueno digo si se puede sobre las stakas que. Van en el suelo algo de peace gracias
Hola Jesus, las estacas no es mas que un linea de pixeles (5 -10 pixeles) interconectadas en serie. Tambien podrias usar el elemento de cubo. Las acomodas verticalmente de forma que cubran el espacio que requieras en el piso. Depues creas un grupo con todas ellas y pones effectos.
@@trevilights para usar en xlights cuál sería su elemento
@@601jesus La Linea recta. Haces una de los pixeles que quieras y la pones en forma vertical. La copias y acomodas cuantas veces quieras cubriendo el area que quieras.
@@trevilights muchas gracias amigo
@@601jesus Por nada. Muchas veces este proceso es de prueba y error. Intenta algo y si no es lo que esperabas, prueba otra cosa. Si necesitas ayuda, puedes separa tiempo conmigo en trevilights.com y tenemos una video llamada. Suerte.
Nice job. Quick question: do I need the F16v3? Do you know of a less expensive controller? I see the f16v3 has multiple outputs but with the tree, we only be using a few of them. Please advise
Thanks you. Unfortunately no. Most of them run for $200 dolars. But you get many functionality. Think of it as an investment for years. I started with 1500 pixels. A few years later I have over 6000.
Great video - I'm now inspired to give this a go! Thanks. Which specific topper did you use from HolidayCoro? Thanks again.
Thank you very much for your words. I use the QT2 360 degrees for up to 32 strands.
@@trevilights great! Thank you for the quick reply.
@@trevilights I’ve just checked and they don’t ship to Hong Kong. Do you happen to know of any other suppliers ? AliExpress would work as they usually ship here. Thanks again.
@@bsargent Unfortunately, there are no other suppliers for the Falcon Controller. They are only sold by the manufacturer.
Thankfully I’ve got the Falcon controller and will order some of those lights you used. I was referring to the topper you mentioned from HolidayCoro.
hi trevi how did you connect the 3 power surply to mega tree because i want to add other power surply to my matrix and mega tree that is connected to controller
Hi Den bel. I placed and extra power supply under the mega tree. All you have to do is connect the positive and negative wires to extra set of cables that most of the LED string have. Basically I have an extra pigtail every 200 or 300 lights. I am also injecting power ar the last string of lights of the mega tree. My mega tree is 1200 light. So I am injecting at led 300, 600, 900 and 1200. That power supply also supply power to my singing trees. Obviously you need to run a 120v extension to power the 12v power supply.
Inject enegry huh i know it helps them glow better just add more power box in white box ?
Great video you explained things very clearly! Question, is there any problem with snow or water at the base of your tree??
No problem at all. The grass pretty much absorbs all rain. We get no snow at all in Tennessee. Maybe you could rise your power supplies with some brick. My controller is inside my garage. I do not want it to be stolen. 🙄
@@trevilights Great, in Canada (Toronto, Ontario) we get lots of snow. I'll have to take your comments and raise the bottoms ..Thanks again.
where did you get the black strips that you mounted the lights too?
Holiday Coro
Where did you get the poll and the top piece for the tree
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
Also check:
mattosdesigns.com/collections/megatree-parts-1
and wiredwatts.com
Hi Trevi
Is that a 1inch pipe for the tree?
Hi. Its a TV Antenna Mast. (2 pcs). 1 and 1/4 Inches.
www.lowes.com/pd/Winegard-Antenna-Mounts-and-Kits-5ft-swedged-masting/5001146085
Why all the loose blue and red wires at the bottom? Looks like an easy short out.
These string of lights come with an extra positive (red) and negative (blue) wires for power injection. You may not be able to see it in the video, but the copper tips are cut off. But you are right, there is a possibility of a short if not cover properly.
Thanks for watching.
Excelente video donde se puede conseguir?
Si vives en EEUU todo lo puedes comprar en linea. De lo contrario te va ha ser complicado.
@@trevilights cuando subes el video de las figuras.?
@@SolutionsJJrEspero en unos días más.
@@trevilights estaré atento gracias
Nice video but I think you forgot any information about using the PI and FM transmitter. Maybe I overlooked it but went through the video a couple times.
Thank you. I will be creating a video about the PI and FM transmitter in the next few days.
Hi. Trevi, Do you have any video showing how to take a picture of a house to incorporate it in the Setup of xlight software showing where to place a model or pros...
hey Li2, I do not have a video on that. But if you click anywhere on the black portion of the Layout view, you will see an option to the left that says 'Background Image". Here you can select a photo of the front of you house and it will set it and background. Then you can bring its brightness to 20.
@@trevilights Tenx.. I have another question for you regarding Raspberry Pi. I have watch your video and it was very well said.. However, Im a little bit curious about using this gadget plus the FM transmitter. My question is,.. If I use this Raspberry Pi with FM transmitter will my lights in mega tree dance with the music in FM radio?
@@li2buenafe Hello Li2, I have never done anything like that. The Falcon player(PI) plays sequences form xLights. I know xlights has an music effect that will make lights dance. But the music comes from a file not the radio and it has its limitations. In TH-cam search for xlights music effect. There are a few demos available.
Hi. Trev.. Got a question. I just received my F16v3 16ports 12v. To be use for my 16 ft Mega Tree. If I want to add let say a roof line layout with 400 Nodes with 3" spacing. Do I need to buy another controller for my roof outline.?? and another controller for a singing Tree just like yours. ??
@@trevilights Got it Tenx..
Hello Mr. Trevi, can I ask if you could help me with a video of power injecting? Estoy medio menso lol and I'm having a hard time. The way you explain your video is the best I've seen. Please, porfa una ayudita 🆘
Injecting power is very simple. The power supply I am using are like this one...
www.amazon.com/ALITOVE-Universal-Regulated-Switching-Transformer/dp/B06XJVYDDW/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?ie=UTF8&aaxitk=s9DjW5F12eETMZNr.Zcjbg&hsa_cr_id=2776961390401&pd_rd_r=aad1c139-a604-4d9c-b037-c540c276b25c&pd_rd_w=I3ZmG&pd_rd_wg=Whaqt&ref_=sbx_be_s_sparkle_td_asin_2_title
This power supply have three 12V+ screws and 12V- screws. All you have to do is connect one positive and one negative to the lights positive and negative wire. Just make sure you do not flip them. From my experience injecting every 300 lights should be enough.
@@trevilights Thanks again for the video... It looks like you are using multiple power supplies, my question is with the extra power injection wires on the ws2811 strings is it OK the have one power supply on one end of the string and another power supply on the other end? Thanks for the help!
@@calebbarker9366 Hello, you can use the same power supply at both ends or use a second one.
Great video. Are these links everything I need to build a mega tree. I feel as if I’m missing something
Hi Robert. Thanks for watching my video. You still need some tools like heat gun, clippers, solder gun, antenna pole, some sort of base for the tree to hold it upright(unless you have help while you out some of the plastic strips). Some plastic or metal anchors, 3 wire cables enough to run a line from the controller to the tree. You should start as soon as possible. It takes time to gather and assemble all of this. Also the resting and sequences takes time. Good luck.
Ok. But as far as the controller and power supplies I just need to order the list?
@@robertcavello6568 Yes. I would recommend you to get the Falcon Controller F16V3 as kit or fully assembled, some extra power supplies and some pixels ws2811. All in 12 volts. This will allow you to get familiar with the project.
Awesome I'm bout to place my order
Do I I have to have a rashbeery pi even if I don’t have music? This my first year and I would like to make only the tree
Hi Rexton. No, you can play a sequence from your computer straight to the controller. The Raspberry Pi replaces your computer and add some other functionality. You can schedule and organize your sequence among other things. But is not required. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for your videos. It is really helpful. I am thinking of buying a F16v3 fully assembled controller and I have followed your steps and almost set. Only the sequences just learning. In falcon controller there is a sd card slot can I download the sequences in a sd card and play without connecting the controller to the computer? I s there a video to help me that? Once again thank you..
@@rextonandrew Rexton. Buying the controller fully assembled is a smart move. The controller has an SD card slot but it is only used for software upgrades. Playing sequences out of it is not supported(yet). So the sequences need to play either for your computer of other devices such as the Falcon player installed in a Raspberry PI.
@@trevilights Thank you for the quick response.
Just double checking, but if I start with a female pigtail on the bottom of strand 1 then that strand ends with a male pigtail at the top. So the next strand would need a female pigtail at the top. So for your 12 strand example you would have 6 strands with the female pigtail at the bottom and 6 strands with male pigtails at the bottom. Would it not be better to make the plastic strips such that the top and bottom were the same so all strands are made identical? Then you would just have to turn each strand one way or the other to keep the data flow in the correct direction? Or am I missing something?
@@codecage9333 Yes, you are correct. But please notice that usually a string of light will come with xconnect pigtails included and the input end is a male connector. But if you are making your own extensions then you are okay.
…and about the strands you are also correct, build them the same way and just flip them over.
@@trevilights Thought the input end was a female connector. Your video at 7:30 to 7:47 gives me that impression. An added edit: I finally figured it out! The input end of factory/prewired ws2811 RGB LEDS have male pigtails and the output end is a female pigtail.
Your reference to which was which was based on cutting off the non-waterproof ends and attaching matching waterproof ends. But if you installed male on the end you cut of the non-waterproof female connector and a female connector on the other end where you removed the non-waterproof male connector, you'd would be matching the preassembled cables like I have been purchasing.
@@codecage9333 Exactly. I will prefer that you follow the standards. But at the end of the day, is up to you your show will work the same. Some of the props/strands that I have, are from when I started, about 5 years go and wired the differently. I still use does props as they are.
Are these special lights for what you are doing? Can I use the led lights that you would buy for the Christmas tree from a big box store?
These are special led lights. Individually addressed. They are call ws2811.
hello where did you buy the controller and power supplies
Controller from pixelcontroller.com and power supplies from Holiday Coro.
I missed where you added the pi and fm transmitter
I did not included it in this video. I will be uploading one in the next few days. Meanwhile you can watch the initial setup of the PI (falcon Player) here...
th-cam.com/video/yqXK5p1eRM4/w-d-xo.html
How many Amps does this tree require? How do you figure out how many Amps you need?
each lights consumes around 0.06 watts when lit white and at full brightness. So 1200 lights will be 0.06 x 1200 = 72 Watts. But since they are not lit white all the time and not a 100% brightness the consumption is much lower. The power supplies I have are 29Amp 360 Watts. Should be enough to power more that 4000 lights. It's good not to run a power supply over it's 75% capacity.
Which topper did you choose from Holiday Coro? The QT1? Is it a 3/4 conduit pole? Also what height do I need the pole to be to replicate yours? Great video!
Hi Jared, I used the QT2. As fot the hight, I used two Antenna poles. But it all depends on the lenght of your plastic strips and the spacing between pixels. The idea is find a good angle for your strands. Some people like thier tree thin and tall, other short and wide. Keep in mind that when the strands are closer together, the effects look better.
Thanks for watching.
@@trevilights Thanks! How many strips total did you end up using?
@@jaredwilson6214 24 Strips of 50 lights each. Total of 1200 pixels for a 360 degrees tree.
This year I am doing 16 Strips of 100 lights for a 180 degree tree. Twice as high, but only half round tree.
can you link the pole that you used? I am planning to build a mega tree next year
Here you go. I used two of these.
www.homedepot.com/p/Channel-Master-Universal-5-ft-Indoor-Outdoor-Antenna-Mast-CM-1805/302045146
@@trevilights Thank you
Is that the holiday coro mega tree? Also what size and height was the pole. I like your set up.
I built the tree myself. But the topper and plastic strip I did got from Holiday Coro. The center pole is actually made of two antenna masts. Around 9ft tall.
I'm looking at following your instructions to build my first mega tree. When I go to the site to buy the Falcon controller, which options do I select? I can see I'll want 12v based on the lights you suggest. But what about pigtail type? Thank you for putting these videos together, your work is amazing.
Hey Richard. Thank you so much for your words and for watching my videos. The selection of pigtails is up to you. Just make sure they are water proof which most of them are. You will need 1 pair per string(strand) for your tree. Since we are doing a zig-zag pattern, your string will connect to each other on the top and bottom of you tree. You can find different brands and sizes on Amazon. Many people use Ray Wu brand, they use 18awg wire which is robust. I used some unbranded that I got from Aliexpress(china). Buy always the same brand, since the connector size varies and might not be compatible between them. Good luck with your project.
www.amazon.com/Pigtail-Waterproof-Connector-Lights-13-5mm/dp/B07YZDCG9P/ref=sr_1_7?crid=3MOZGDFO9511U&dchild=1&keywords=3+wire+pigtail&qid=1632829740&sprefix=3+wire+pigtai%2Caps%2C393&sr=8-7
What kind of lights do you have on your gutter downspouts? I REALLY like them!
WS2811 Digital Addressable LED Strip 12V Aclorol Programmable 5050 RGB 5M 300 LED Strip Dream Color White PCB IP67 Waterproof www.amazon.com/dp/B07FTRVS2W/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_fabc_Utw3FbT8J3N41?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
How Big is that one in your video and how many strips and how many leds per strip?
Hey there. The tree is about 9 feet tall. There are 24 strands of 50 lights each for a total of 1200 lights.
you have two controllers, do you have a link to the assembly of the controller with the power supply? does each power supply plug into the f16V3, doe the power supply get power from the controller? also since you have 2 controllers, and each is capable of 1024 lights, and you only use 600 each, do you run the other 424 to a smaller tree each?
Hello. I only have one controller. The controller is powered by only one power supply which sits next to it. I do have a second box with two power supplies. These ones are used to inject power to my mega tree and singing trees since they demand more power. And yes, you could add more lights at the end of the two 600 lights strings. You will need to inject more power to them. I am going to add a star on the top of the mega tree which I am going to connect from one of those strings.
So can you do a video dumbed down for those of who are new to show us how the power supplies work, how they connect to get power, a real close up of the inner workings. I would imagine it’s powered by a cord you plug into the controller or the wall? Maybe give us a detailed breakdown of where you got your materials and a details cost analysis. It’s so hard to know what is good. What is not. What works together and what doesn’t. Don’t be afraid to give a real “dumbed” down approach for those who also may not be computer literate. Thanks for doing how to videos. How much power does a power supply utilize. You said you have three. Thanks again.
@@Lerchcon I guess I could. Just give me some time. I have other videos that I'll like to upload first. You can find a ready to run controller just like mine in the link below.
You could save a few bucks if you do it yourself but not much.
www.pixelcontroller.com/store/index.php?id_product=50&controller=product
@@trevilights I guess my confusion really is dealing with importing other peoples sequences, I tried and none of them work. This cloud download crap is a pain in hen using Microsoft to download from website. And when downloaded from xlights program it didn’t work either.
Other questions would be, what is the raspberry PI for if the controller claims to be ready to run, is there already one installed. I actually sat down and played with the xlights program. I created a full sequence for my mega tree to Mariahs all I want for Christmas. Then accidentally opened the internet. Seen the download still there so I deleted it tho king the one I created was good since I saved it. And it deleted the sound from my sequence the next time I opened it. Crazy. I redownloaded the song and added to the already created sequence. from your video I learned about layering. So good job. Little short videos of things like that will definitely garner more views for your channel. Thanks for also replying. And thanks for the videos. I also just tried to download the new version of that software and my computer keeps saying with three pop ups it will harm my computer and is blocked. The first download of xlights didn’t say that. Hmmmm.
@@Lerchcon Hi Lerchcon, Importing sequence from someone else can be very frustrating, specially because we do not know if they are in good shape or are incomplete. I will try to upload a simple video on it, but keep in mind that it would only work if you are willing to have a similar layout on your house. Now, the reason to use a Pi Controller is so you can run your show without your computer. The Falcon Player (Pi Controller) allows you to create Playlist with the songs that you want to play. You can have many playlist and play them at different time and different days. It has many more options. IF you are okay using your computer, then there is no need for one. I will create a short video on importing sequence shortly. Stay tune.
HI, MATT GOOD JOB WHERE DO GET ALL ASSEMBLE STUFF
I got mostly on amazon, Even the lights even I had to pay a little more. I like the Idea of been able to return them if they do not work. The controller from PixelController LLC. The singing trees from boscoyostudio.
Do you have a parts list for making this ?
Look at the description of this video. You might get an idea.
Hello Trevi I have a question.
the top of the big tree. where the pixel band enters.
is this for sale somewhere or can it be printed yourself with a 3d printer.
I would like to hear from you then I can either buy or make it.
thank you in advance
greetings gideon
Hello Gideon, I got it at Holiday Coro. It is the QT2 for up to 32 strands.
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
@@trevilights Hi thanks for the answer, I'll take a look there,
see if they also want to send it to the Netherlands.
@@gideonnederpelt8023 Netherlands! Hope the shipping is not to much.
@@trevilights the shipping cost is almost as much as the topper, $ 34.
unfortunately there is not much to be found here in the Netherlands
@@gideonnederpelt8023 Well. It will be a one time investment.
Thanks for the great videos. I am new to pixel Christmas lights and have been able to get my first display working good by watching your videos. My first tree was an artificial tree with 450 lights on one string. They are 5 volt strings and power injected. I have had about 6 lights go bad after testing the tree for a couple of months. Is that failure rate common? My next tree that I have about finished is a mega tree with 1500 pixels in 30 strands. Should I run one strand per controller output so if a light goes bad I don't lose a large portion of my display? I see you ran half of your tree on one output. How did that work for you? Any help is appreciated. Thanks. Dave
Dave, Thanks for watching. Makes me happy to know that I am helping a few of you to get started on led shows. I've been doing this for 4 years now and I have never had one single pixel go bad. Check your connection for a short and make sure you are using the correct voltage for your pixels. It's weird that you having so many strings go bad. For your tree, I assume that you are using a F16V3 Falcon controller, which has a limit of 1024 lights per port. Is you are planning to have 1500 lights then you are going to use two of your ports. You can have any number of pixels per port as long as you do not go over 1024. But I recommend to break it in two to make configuration more simple. Your you can have 750 pixels on one port and another 750 in another port. Take into consideration that you will need to inject power to feed 750 lights. I recommend injecting at 3 points. The first point is where it connects to the controller which is already injecting power. The second point will be half way, like at the end of strand number 7 and the last one at the end of strand 15. The same goes for the other string. Hope this helps.
@@trevilights Thanks for your help and input. The tree that is burning out the lights is using 5 volt lights and I am using a smart receiver set at 5.1 volts which is the minimum for the smart receiver to operate properly. I am going to take the lights off of the tree and run them individually on the workbench and see if I can figure out why they keep burning out. My mega tree should be done in the next couple weeks thanks to great advice from your videos. They were especially helpful in getting Xlights working. I will power inject every hundred lights and since they are going to be run off a smart receiver I will probably input data every 500 lights for my total of 1500 pixels. Once again thanks for your help. Dave
@@susanclouse281 Dave, as a tip see if by removing the first pixel of your burnt string makes the rest of the pixels to work. It could be just the first pixel that is bad. You might be able to reuse the rest on some other elements.
@@trevilights Thanks for the tip. Yes, I have been replacing the bad lights and the strings work again. The tree that I am having problems with has 9 strings hooked into it so if one bulb goes bad I lose the majority of the lights on the tree. I was glad to hear you have not had a pixel go out. I might just have some bad strings. My current Christmas display has over 30,000 regular LED bulbs which don't give me many problems so I was surprised that the pixels were burning out. Thanks again. Dave
Where did you buy all the equipments from? Do you have list of each item?
You can find the itemes needed at pixelcontroller.com, boscoyo studios and Holiday Coro.
Where did you buy your strings?
I got them from Amazon. The plastic mounting strip from Holidaycoro.com
I like to know where you got all the parts from and cost.
You can get everything from different suppliers. Pixelcontroller.com, Holiday Coro and Boscoyo studios. The mega tree came up to around $600.
what mega tree top plate is that
QT2 from HolidayCoro
www.holidaycoro.com/PixNode-Strip-MegaTree-Topper-For-MegaTrees-p/750.htm
Hello it's very nice to share your knowledge !! Could you please make a video how you build your singing trees ;) Best regards from France !! (I subscribe) ;)
Thank you, I will do.
Where did you get your pole base and pole?
It is an patio umbrella base and antenna pole from Homedepot.
Where did you order your stuff lights and the boxs
Hello Tom , Lights from Amazon and the boxes from Holiday Coro.
how high was the tree in your demo?
Hi. 9 ft. Last season I added an additional 50 pixels to each strand. Now it’s 100 pixels per strand for a height of about 19 ft. You can see it and the background for my site trevilight.com
Hey Trevi what controller and receivers did you use for the singing Chris tree? Did you add data to megatree receiver or supplied one for the singing tree? I am getting bunch of stuff from holidaycoro so just want to be sure what I would need.
Hey. I only use a Falcon Controller F16V3, no receivers. The distance between the controller and elements is short. I do have an extra power supply under the tree which injects power to the tree and other close by elements.
@@trevilights whats the rule of the distance before a receiver is required? I'm trying to do megatree, arch, singing christmas tree and few other elements. I would say approx feet would be 25 from garage to lawn.
@@rpra7392 25ft should be okay. Use some good quality 18gs 3 wire cables for the run. My show is 12v and believe this voltage is better over 5v when it come to voltage drop over distance. I recomend you to buy some F-amp just is case.
www.pixelcontroller.com/store/controllers/53-falcon-picap.html
**F16V4 is what I purchased
@@rpra7392 You won't regret it. It's an amazing controller. And you got the newest model. Congrats!
Where can you get the music and sequence for the singin trees ?? can you help
Mostly from TH-cam using a TH-cam to MP3 converter website.
@@trevilights Thanks a lot. I have the song downloaded.... its my first year and I have build just about the same setup as you have....a mega tree and 2 singing trees.... just starting on xlights, so would it be possible to get the sequence with the singing trees from you ? Best regards from Denmark
@@passion4dancedk I'll see if I can put a short video for the singing trees within the next few days.
@@trevilights That would be awesome Trevi..... I know I dont have so much time before the 1st of December to learn all the tricks. Would it be possible to buy your singing tree sequence to shorten the learning.
Best regards from Denmark
@@passion4dancedk Creating a singing tree sequence should take about 1 hrs. It's pretty easy.
Trevi, which Rasberry Pi model are you using? thanks
CanaKit Raspberry Pi 3 B+ (B Plus) with Premium Clear Case and 2.5A Power Supply
www.amazon.com/CanaKit-Raspberry-Premium-Clear-Supply/dp/B07BC7BMHY/ref=sr_1_4?crid=F4K581M430VS&dchild=1&keywords=canakit+raspberry+pi+3+b%2B&qid=1608562945&sprefix=canakit+ras%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-4